Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz survived grueling five-set battles on Friday to book their place in the men’s singles final of the 2026 Australian Open. Ahead of what promises to be a blockbuster clash, the legendary Rafael Nadal was asked who he would back between Djokovic, his biggest rival, and Alcaraz, the flag-bearer of Spain’s next generation.
During an appearance at the Australian Open, Nadal first surprised the crowd when he said he would be happy for Djokovic to win Sunday’s final, before clarifying his stance. Nadal said he has huge respect for Djokovic but will back Alcaraz in the summit clash.
“Honestly, I have mixed feelings because my history with Novak is great. We have competed at the highest level for many years and I wish him all the best. Honestly, if he wins, I will be very happy for him,” Nadal said. “But on the other hand, Carlos is my countryman and we shared important moments at the Olympics, so I have to support him. In any case, it won’t be a drama for me, whatever happens.”
Alcaraz made it to the final after defeating Alexander Zverev of Germany in a marathon semi-final. After taking a two-set lead, the Spaniard pulled his right leg midway through the match, allowing Zverev to claw his way back. As the match gathered momentum, Alcaraz showed remarkable mental strength to overcome his opponent 6-4, 7-6, 6-7, 7-6, 7-5 in five hours and 29 minutes.
Nadal described Alcaraz as a true professional and pointed out that the 22-year-old will have an age advantage over Djokovic despite the physical concerns of the semi-final.
Meanwhile, Djokovic endured an equally punishing encounter against Italian star Jannik Sinner. The 38-year-old record Australian Open champion sent Rod Laver Arena into a frenzy when he ended Sinner’s 19-match winning streak in Melbourne with a 3-6, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory in a match that stretched over four hours.
Nadal said Djokovic’s continued presence at the top of the sport was a testament to his resilience and determination.
“It doesn’t surprise me to see Novak in the final. Why not? I would also compete if it wasn’t for the injury,” Nadal said. “If you are not exhausted by all that tennis entails, you can continue. It is very positive for our sport that he is still active and competing on equal terms with younger players. He is not at his peak, but he still has what it takes to achieve great success.”
The Australian Open 2026 Men’s Singles Final begins on Sunday, February 1 at 2:00 PM IST.
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Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
January 31, 2026
